1971 Opel Rekord vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1730 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Opel Rekord | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rekord | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
